Universal OBD2 • P0304 ✓ Verified Engineering Spec ⏱️ Est. Time: ~20 Mins 🔩 Reference Part: COIL-COP-CYL4 👨‍🔬 By How2.me Engineering Lab • Updated Oct 2026

P0304 Code: Cylinder 4 Misfire Detected Causes, Swap Test & Fix

OBD2 code P0304 indicates that the engine computer has detected incomplete combustion specifically isolated to Cylinder 4.

UNIVERSAL OBD2 DIAGNOSTIC DISPLAY
P0304
Target SystemUniversal OBD2 Ignition & Misfire
Primary Suspect PartCylinder #4 Ignition Coil Pack & Spark Plug (COIL-COP-CYL4)
DIY Cost vs. Pro$20 - $80 (Spark Plug & Coil) vs $150 - $280
Est. Repair Time~20 Mins (Easy 20-Min DIY)
🔍 Interactive P0304 Root-Cause Narrower (Click Yes / No) Step 1 of 3
Q1: Did this issue start suddenly or develop gradually over time?
Q2: Does resetting or clearing the error cause it to return immediately?
Q3: Does restarting or power cycling clear the issue temporarily?
🛠️ Technician Diagnostic Mode & Cost Calculator Save ~78% DIY
Hidden Factory Test / Reset Sequence

Swap Coil #4 with Coil #1; if misfire moves to P0301, replace coil

Ready
DIY Part Cost (COIL-COP-CYL4) $20 - $80 (Spark Plug & Coil)
Technician Call + Labor $150 - $280
UNIVERSAL OBD2 IGNITION & MISFIRE — P0304 DIAGNOSTIC SIGNAL SCHEMATIC 1. MAIN CONTROL PCB Monitors Sensor Bus Code: P0304 Universal OBD2 Self-Check 2. PRIMARY FAULT POINT Cylinder #4 Ignition Coil… OEM #: COIL-COP-CYL4 Test Harness & Ohm Spec 3. VERIFIED DIY FIX Clear Error Memory Est. Time: ~20 Mins DIY: $20 - $80 How2.me Engineering Schematic • Always disconnect AC power or negative battery terminal before servicing

📊 Technical Thresholds, Pinout & Pass/Fail Specifications

Parameter / ComponentNormal / Verified SpecFault / Trigger Condition
Coil Primary Resistance0.5 to 1.5 OhmsOpen circuit (OL / ∞ Ω) or short (< 5 Ω) confirms component coil/wiper failure
Plug Gap0.032 to 0.044 inInspect wiring harness & replace COIL-COP-CYL4 if out of spec
Noid Light TestConfirms injector pulse from ECMVerify continuity and clean terminal connectors before clearing P0304

Understanding the Technical Root Cause

On the Universal OBD2 Ignition & Misfire, this condition occurs when the system's electronic controller detects an out-of-bounds signal on P0304. The micro-controller constantly compares live sensor telemetry against factory tolerance thresholds. When readings deviate beyond safety limits, protective lockout routines are activated.

Step-by-Step Diagnostic & DIY Resolution Guide

  1. Initial Visual & Power Inspection: Disconnect power to the unit. Check all visible wiring harnesses for corrosion, loose terminal pins, or heat discoloration.
  2. Multimeter Verification: Using a digital multimeter, measure electrical continuity and resistance across the terminals of the Cylinder #4 Ignition Coil Pack & Spark Plug (COIL-COP-CYL4). Compare your readings to the technical specification table above.
  3. Service Mode & Recalibration: Follow the service sequence: Swap Coil #4 with Coil #1; if misfire moves to P0301, replace coil. This allows direct hardware testing and verification before returning to normal operation.

❓ Frequently Asked Technical Questions (FAQ)

What is the most common cause of this P0304 issue on Universal OBD2 Ignition & Misfire?

The primary root cause is typically wear or degradation of the Cylinder #4 Ignition Coil Pack & Spark Plug, loose electrical wiring harnesses, or sensor calibration drift.

Can I safely use the system while this condition is active?

It is recommended to address this promptly. Continuing to operate under fault conditions can cause secondary damage or lock out operation.

How long does the DIY repair take?

This repair typically requires approximately 20 minutes with basic household hand tools or a digital multimeter.

What is the OEM replacement part number?

The genuine manufacturer part number is COIL-COP-CYL4 (Cylinder #4 Ignition Coil Pack & Spark Plug).

How do I clear the error once the repair is complete?

Follow the procedure: Swap Coil #4 with Coil #1; if misfire moves to P0301, replace coil. Disconnecting power for 2 minutes also forces a hard capacitor reset.